With the recent announcement of the closure of the Bingo Hall coming Oct. 14, many Elliot Lake residents are not taking this decision too lightly.
After 13 years in business, Bingo Plus owner Marcel Leblanc decided that he had enough and made the decision to close the Bingo hall after multiple disputes with the Bingo’s Charities Association.
“I’ve had enough of being ignored and not having my ideas heard,” he said. “So I’m closing. I feel bad but enough is enough.”
Leblanc said over 45 seniors attend the Bingo regularly and he said they will be the ones that will need to find other sources of social events.
On the other hand, many residents are confused and upset with this decision, some even suggesting another person step up and take over.
Sarah-Best Perron said the decision to close the Bingo hall is selfish and this activity is needed in Elliot Lake.
“They aren't even thinking about the fact that it is a retirement living community,” she said. “What are the older people to do now when the Bingo is their one social event of the day? It's selfish. This is needed in the community as it benefits such a wide variety of people in Elliot Lake.”
Concerned resident Gerald Dugas said he believes that now that the hall will be closing, many people will take their revenue elsewhere.
“Another one bites the dust,” he writes. “This is sad news. Why can’t we just get along and support the little local businesses we have? Now people will bring their revenue out of town once again.”
Many are worried about the effect the closure of the hall will have on local charities.
“A bunch of organizations are now about to lose out on much needed money. Give your head a shake,” she said.
The final game Bingo Plus will be hosting will be on Oct. 13.